New student Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I join MATES

Starting university can be a daunting experience. The MATES community is an informal way to meet other students, share experiences and ask questions. MATES can help you meet other new students and build the knowledge and skills you need to find your way through university life. Read all about a new students' experience with MATES and how it helped him settle in at Western Sydney University.

Can my mentor help me with my assignments?

No. Your mentor is there to help you settle into University. They can give you information about and help you connect with, study support services and programs, study skills workshops, share ideas on how to manage your study load, and let you know about how the library and librarians can assist you.

Will my mentor meet me for lunch?

Your mentor is a friendly face on campus, and it might be convenient to meet with your mentor over a bite to eat. However, it's important to remember that your mentor has their own study and other commitments so they may not have the time to socialise outside of the mentor sessions.

If you're looking for someone to have lunch with, your mentor can introduce you to other first year students and give you information about the different social clubs and activities on campus.

I'm having trouble at home, is my mentor someone I can talk to?

Your mentor can definitely talk through general issues with you. Mentors are students too, so they understand the pressures of balancing work/life and study. They can also refer you to relevant student services if it's appropriate.

How will I connect with a mentor?

After you've signed up to MATES you can join a mentor group through our online system. Which mentor you choose is up to you. Your priority might be connecting with a mentor from your own course, who is mature age or just someone who is available on campus at the same time as you. Keep an open mind about who might be a good mentor for you. A mentor doesn't have to be studying the same course to be helpful; all our mentors are keen to share their knowledge about thriving at University.

Hear from new students who have previously been a part of MATES on our testimonials page.

Find out more